Sea Scallop Harvest Gear: Engineering for Sustainability

Abstract

The Atlantic sea scallop is the most important molluscan shellfish species commercially harvested in the United States. The species is sought for the large, white circular adductor muscle (the 'meat') that holds the two valves of the animal together. In North America, the 'meat' is generally the only part of the scallop that is landed and eaten, although the meat only accounts for about a third of the animal's visceral weight. In 2004, U.S. landings of sea scallop meats totaled 29,374 metric tons. The value of the U.S. scallop harvest in 2004 ($321 million) was only exceeded by crabs ($447 million), shrimp ($425 million), and lobster ($344 million). Harvesting problems in the wild capture scallop fishery have a long history of being addressed with technical gear-related solutions. Recent advances include larger rings and twine tops, turtle chain mats, and changes to the drag frame. Management strategies and gear design must work together for sustainable fisheries.